SuperWarm

Frequently, when looking for answers to human problems, scientists turn to animals who have already evolved their own solutions. So when it came time to develop a heat-trapping fabric, a team of researchers looked to polar bears, whose outer layers allow them to withstand temperatures as low as -50 °F (-46 °C). The secret, they found, has to do with a relationship between the polar bears' unique fur and the black skin that lies beneath it.Animals are constantly inspiring humans to try to imitate some of their qualities,…

It was weirdly warm in Washington D.C. and along much of the U.S. East Coast this winter. And, despite some brief bursts of colder temperatures, the unseasonable weather has had some some spillover effects. Spring sprung early, bringing on pollen and allergy season to parts of the country sooner than generally expected. But, on a brighter note: there are pretty flowers to look at. The nation’s capital is experiencing anearly bloom of its iconic cherry blossoms. The trees have historically reached their most showy…